When it comes to furnishing a new apartment — especially your first one — it’s often difficult to know where to begin. What are those necessities you’ll need on the day of, and what items should you prioritize?
To help you answer these questions, we’ve compiled a first apartment checklist, complete with move-in day essentials, common items for every area of the apartment, and even tasks to check off before the big day.
Move-In Day Essentials
Everybody’s been there: You need scissors to unpack your boxes, but you’ve packed the scissors somewhere in the boxes. To avoid that last-minute scramble for a screwdriver and other move-in day necessities, here’s a list of tools that could come in handy during your move:
- Measuring tape
- Hammer and nails
- Both flat- and Phillips-head screwdrivers and screws
- Allen wrench kit (especially if furniture assembly is involved)
- Wall hooks
- Extension cords
- Scissors
- Duct tape
- Step stool
- Flashlight
- Batteries (grab AAA, AA, and D to cover your bases)
You might also want to clean a little before you settle in. Here are a few basics for this part of the process:
- All-purpose cleaner
- Toilet brush
- Plunger
- Broom or a mop
In addition to unpacking and putting together furniture, you’ll also likely be existing in your new space for the first time. Some essentials to remember include:
- Hand soap
- Toilet paper
- Tissues
- Paper towels
- Trash bags
- Bottled water or a water filter
- Chargers
Finally, it never hurts to be overprepared! Have these items at the ready to guarantee a smooth and safe first day:
- Small first aid kit with any necessary over-the-counter medications
- Fire extinguisher
- Fan or space heater depending on the climate
- Smoke detectors if your apartment needs them
- Carbon monoxide detector
Bedroom
After packing, the bedroom will likely be the first place you spend your time! To make sure you have the necessities to make that first night of sleep a great one, here’s a list of some bedroom basics.
- Mattress and a topper if you so choose
- Sheet and comforter set
- Pillows
- Bed frame
- Window treatments
Pro tip: To make sure you get as much shuteye as you need those first few nights in a new place, as well as some privacy, consider prioritizing window treatments. If your apartment doesn’t come with shades, pick up a temporary set from a hardware store to give you some privacy while you shop for something long term.
Bathroom and Laundry
The bathroom is another area of your first apartment you’ll likely want to furnish as quickly as possible. First apartment bathroom necessities include:
- Bath towels and washcloths
- Bath mat
- Shower curtain and rings
- Necessary toiletries (don’t forget that toothbrush!)
- Trash can
Know you’ll be doing a lot of laundry that first week? Grab these essentials:
- Hamper or laundry basket
- Clothes hangers
- Laundry detergent
Living Room
Though lower on the totem pole, you’ll eventually want a space to relax. To help you create your new living space, here are a few common furnishings:
- Couch
- Table
- TV
- TV stand
- Lighting (especially if the room doesn’t yet have any)
- Wi-Fi router
Kitchen and Dining
After the novelty of takeout has worn off, you’ll need some basic items in your kitchen and dining areas to start fending for yourself. Some of the necessities include:
- Silverware
- A pan or a pot
- Glasses and coffee mugs
- Plates
- Bowls (a mixing bowl may come in handy)
- Serving spoon and spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener
- Food containers
- Aluminum foil and plastic wrap
- Dishtowels
- Dish soap and sponge
- Trash can
Some bigger-ticket kitchen and dining items include:
- Table and chairs
- Coffee maker
- Toaster
- Microwave
First Apartment Checklist Tips
Now that you know everything you need for your apartment, it’s important to consider what you need to do to prepare for move-in day. Review these tips to make the day of your move-in a successful one:
- Pack ahead of time: There’s always one that will challenge themselves to pack it all on the day of. Save yourself the stress by starting early and boxing a little bit every day.
- Ask your landlord about any move-in day requirements: Some buildings may ask that you reserve an elevator or parking space for the move-in process. Check for things like this in advance to save time.
- Measure your new space: If you can get in your apartment ahead of time, take advantage of the opportunity to measure door frames and rooms to make sure all your furniture will fit.
- Book a moving company or rent a moving truck: If you plan to make the move yourself, reserve a moving truck ahead of time. If you’re hiring professionals, schedule an in-home estimate.
- Ask for help: Recruit friends and family to help you with the packing process or on move-in day.
- Purchase or collect packing boxes: Many businesses, including grocery stores or even bookstores, give their discarded boxes away for free. If you don’t mind secondhand materials, accepting used boxes can really help save money.
- Get renters insurance: Renters insurance will cover your personal belongings in the event of a fire, theft, or damage.
- Set up internet and cable: Make an installation appointment with cable and internet providers in your new neighborhood.
- Update your address: Change your address with anyone who will need to reach you. This includes your bank, credit card companies, your employer, loan providers, and more. Apply to have your mail forwarded to catch anything you might have missed.
- Update your voter registration: You can complete this simple process by mail or online.
- Make sure you have all your important documents: From passports to medical records, a marriage license to financial documents, gather all of your necessary papers. Consider carrying these with you to keep track of them on the day of your move.
Moving on a tight budget? These tricks could help:
- Set a moving budget in advance: This will help you save money where it matters most, helping you choose whether you hire professionals or bribe friends for help.
- Take advantage of special sales: Shop for furniture and apartment necessities online and keep an eye out for sales. Especially if you’re browsing around the holidays, annual sales could help you save a significant amount of cash.
- Cross-check prices: Whether you’re splurging on a couch or finding the right internet provider, cross-checking costs and included benefits — warranties, trial periods, free shipping — can help you find an option that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
- Ask friends and family: Chances are, your relatives have furniture they’re more than happy to give away, and often times they have real gems! Before spending extra on a new dining table, see if someone you know is giving one away. It’s no different than shopping at a thrift store, but this way, you know the previous owner.
Moving into your first apartment is never easy. Give yourself an advantage with these first apartment checklists and tips. Don’t have an apartment yet but ready to find one? Search thousands of apartments for rent on Zumper and find your next home.
The post The Ultimate First Apartment Checklist appeared first on The Zumper Blog.